In a significant leap forward for health technology integration, Apple’s iOS 17.2 and watchOS 10.2 updates, currently undergoing beta testing, are set to expand Siri’s capabilities in accessing and logging health data.
This development makes it possible for users to interact with their health statistics more intuitively via Siri on their devices. Notably, this feature is exclusive to the latest Apple Watch models, namely the Series 9 and Ultra 2, owing to their unique on-device Siri processing capabilities.
Users can now ask Siri various health-related questions, such as inquiring about their sleep duration the previous night, checking the progress of their Activity rings, or even querying their blood glucose levels, provided they have the necessary monitoring equipment connected.
Queries like “How many steps have I taken today?”, “What’s my heart rate?”, and “How many calories have I burned?” exemplify the range of data Siri can now access.
Furthermore, Siri’s new ability to log health data into the Health app adds another layer of convenience. Users can effortlessly update their health records with statements like “My weight is 195.3 pounds” or “My period started today”, making the tracking of personal health metrics more seamless than ever.
To utilize this functionality, users must enable it in their device settings.
For iPhone, this involves navigating to Health → Data Access & Devices → Siri in the Settings app and activating “Access Health Data”. Similarly, on the Apple Watch, users should go to Health → Apps and Services → Siri in the Settings app and toggle on “Allow Siri Access to Health Data”.
With the expected release of iOS 17.2 and watchOS 10.2 next week, this enhancement marks a noteworthy advancement in the integration of health technology with everyday devices, paving the way for a more connected and health-conscious user experience.